Craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes? This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is your answer! As a 17-year-old far from home, I found solace in recreating my mom’s comforting dishes. Her kitchen was a haven of garlicky, cheesy aromas, and this one-pan recipe brings those memories to life. With tender chicken, a rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked penne, it’s a weeknight hero or a special occasion star. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together at Recipeslime.com!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, all in one pan for minimal cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor that kids and adults adore.
- Versatile: Add veggies, go gluten-free, or spice it up, make it your own!
- Nostalgic Comfort: Every bite feels like a warm hug from home.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz penne pasta (or gluten-free pasta for a GF option)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, for extra nutrition)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Substitutions:
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Swap penne for rotini, fettuccine, or zucchini noodles for low-carb.
- Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a twist.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Seasoning: Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes (if using) and adjust salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, to reach desired consistency.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If using spinach or mushrooms, stir them in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted or softened.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~650 kcal per serving (varies with substitutions)
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Balance the Garlic: For a milder flavor, roast the garlic beforehand or use garlic powder. Fresh garlic gives a bold punch, so adjust to your taste.
- Perfect Sauce Consistency: Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir slowly when adding cheese to avoid clumping.
- Stainless Steel Pan Trick: For a golden sear on the chicken (like my mom taught me!), use a stainless steel pan and let it heat fully before adding oil. This creates a flavorful crust.
- Make It Healthier: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Baked Version: Transfer the combined pasta to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes for a crispy finish.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, Italian sausage, or grilled tofu for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with:
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
- A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, for a special touch.
A Taste of Home
This recipe is more than just a meal, it’s a piece of my story. Growing up, my mom’s kitchen was where love and flavor came together. When I moved away at 17, recreating her dishes kept me grounded. This garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is my ode to those moments, blending her comforting flavors with my own creative twists. I hope it brings warmth and joy to your table, just like it does to mine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the combining step (step 5), then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Garnish just before serving.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta, such as rice or quinoa-based penne. Ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, as some brands may include additives. Double-check all seasonings for hidden gluten.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with the creamy sauce (sauté for 2-3 minutes until pink). Italian sausage adds a bold flavor, or try grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but creamy sauces can separate when frozen. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Join the Recipeslime Journey
Loved this recipe? Explore more comforting classics and bold creations on Recipeslime.com. Try our Steak Pasta Recipes next! Share your creations with me on social media and tag @Recipeslime I’d love to hear your story. Let’s create delicious memories, one bite at a time!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta | Quick One-Pan Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a one-pan dish that combines tender, golden chicken with al dente penne enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce. The creamy texture and bold flavors evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of home-cooked meals that bring loved ones together. As a young immigrant recreating my mom’s dishes, I poured my heart into this recipe, blending tradition with my own flair. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a balance of cheesy decadence and customizable versatility. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or seeking a crowd-pleasing main course, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into ½-inch strips
12 oz penne pasta (or gluten-free penne for GF option)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder for milder flavor)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus 2 tbsp for garnish
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
2 cups fresh baby spinach (optional, for added nutrition)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, season chicken strips with ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Gradually stir in 1 cup Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes (if using), remaining ¼ tsp salt, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, to reach desired consistency.
Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If using spinach, stir it in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Notes
Garlic Intensity: For a milder flavor, use roasted garlic or garlic powder. Fresh garlic delivers a bold kick, so adjust based on preference.
Sauce Consistency: Stir cheese slowly to avoid clumping. Reserved pasta water is key to adjusting thickness without diluting flavor.
Pan Searing Trick: Use a stainless steel skillet for a golden chicken crust, as my mom taught me. Preheat the pan fully before adding oil to enhance flavor.
Substitutions:
Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt (add yogurt off heat to prevent curdling).
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free penne or zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Variations:
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes for a crispy top.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce.
Make-Ahead: Prep chicken and garlic in advance; store separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours to save time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx. ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 648 kcal
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg